I stayed in one of UK's 'most haunted' hotel rooms less than two hours from Manchester

This historic fishing port is frequently bypassed by tourists as they flock to nearby attractions. However, with its commanding 15th-century castle towering over the landscape, cobbled lanes, and a beautifully preserved 16th-century Tudor house that arguably outshines any other in the UK, this town has loads to offer.

From its charming streets to quaint shops, not to mention traditional pubs brimming with beams, cosy fires, and a commendable selection of ales and wines, there's something for everyone in this corner of north Wales. The stunning marina, a picturesque harbour offering views of the town's castle and surrounding mountains, is dotted with small fishing boats and crystal-clear waters.

Located right on the marina is the UK's smallest house, which truly needs to be seen to be believed. Astonishingly, a family of six managed to fit into these two minuscule rooms. While the town is undoubtedly beautiful - and I certainly made the most of it - this wasn't the reason for my visit. I was on a ghost hunt.

On a crisp afternoon, I checked into The Castle Hotel in Conwy, a delightful period property that has been accommodating guests for the past 300 years in the town centre. The hotel, less than two hours from Manchester, has hosted some very distinguished guests over the years - from Queen Victoria to poet William Wordsworth and civil engineers Thomas Telford and George Stephenson.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the building's impressive facade and a welcoming, cosy bar complete with a real fire - perfect for a quick warm-up on a brisk autumn day. The friendly staff checked me into room 209, reputedly the most haunted in the hotel.

The Castle Hotel is rumoured to be haunted by the spirit of a former maid who had journeyed from her home in Anglesey to work there. She had one stipulation: if she were to die during her employment, her remains would be returned to her cherished home island for burial.

Regrettably, disaster struck and her wishes were disregarded, resulting in the unfortunate maid being interred in the ancient churchyard directly behind and visible from room 209. Mere weeks after her death, peculiar occurrences began to plague the hotel.

Waitstaff reported inexplicable tripping incidents and water jugs would mysteriously shatter. Eventually, disturbed by the unexplained phenomena, the girl's body was exhumed from its initial resting place and returned to Anglesey, where it remains today.

However, the tale doesn't end there. To this day, staff report hearing footsteps in vacant rooms, pictures along one corridor being mysteriously moved so they no longer hang straight, and lights that had been switched off inexplicably flickering back on.

With these eerie accounts in mind, I approached the 'most haunted room' with a degree of apprehension. Yet, upon opening the curtains, I was met with an unforgettable sight: the breathtaking view of the castle.

Few vistas could rival this: its grand turrets dominate the town, bringing its centuries of history vividly to life. During my three-night stay at the Castle Hotel Conwy, I indulged in the scrumptious evening menu (the risotto comes highly recommended) and savoured several drinks in the bustling, cosy bar.

The breakfasts consisted of delectable Welsh cuisine, providing the perfect start for a day of exploring the town and the beautiful surrounding countryside. Regrettably, during my three nights, I didn't encounter any supernatural entities, but my stay at the Castle Hotel was memorable for many more delightful reasons.

How to enjoy Conwy

• Stay - The Castle Hotel, Conwy, rooms start at £94.
• Conwy Castle - Tickets are £11.90 for adults and £8.30 for concessions
• Plas Mawr - Tickets are £9.50 for adults, £6.70 for children and £8.80 for pensioners. The attraction is closed from November 4 until February 28.
• For more information about Conwy, visit Visit Conwy.